Shaquille Leonard frustrated over diminished role with Colts

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INDIANAPOLIS -- When Colts linebacker Shaquille Leonard was informed his role would not be expanded even in the absence of injured starting middle linebacker Zaire Franklin in Week 9, it solidified for Leonard his diminished role in Indianapolis' defense.

And that has resulted in increased frustration for the three-time first-team All-Pro selection who is coming off two complicated back surgeries to repair nerve damage.

Leonard, the Colts' weak-side linebacker, was told by linebackers coach Richard Smith that he would split reps on early downs and continue to leave the field on third down while backup Segun Olubi manned the middle the entire game.

"So that's when I…